The York City Knights earned a civic reception for winning promotion

York City Knights have received official congratulations from the Lord Mayor and the Sheriff of York City Council for winning promotion.

The Knights beat Oldham 25-4 in the Grand Final last month to clinch their place in next season's Championship.

Lord Mayor Susan Galloway told BBC Radio York: "It's very important that sporting achievement is recognised."

Knights coach Dave Woods added: "It's a great honour for the boys for the work they've put in throughout the year."

Most of the club's players and officials gathered for the civic reception at the historic Mansion House in the city centre.

It creates a feel-good factor for the City Lord Mayor of York Councillor Susan Galloway

"To be recognised by the mayor and the City of York is a tremendous achievement," Woods added.

"I love it here, I virtually live here now. It's a great city with really nice people and it's great to be associated with it."

General manager Ian Wilson added: "A lot of people have worked hard over a number of years to get us the success we've had this season.

"It's the second time I've been here since the promotion in 2005, but it's a special day for the players, for the young players who've never been here before.

"It's something they'll remember for the rest of their careers."

"We pride ourselves on playing for the City," said player-coach Chris Thorman. "The people are wonderful.

"It's always nice to meet a few dignitaries and the Lady Mayoress had some very kind words to say about the team."

"It will obviously bring more people into the city," added the Lord Mayor. "It creates a feel-good factor for the city."

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